LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to bring the Kookaburra ball back to first-class cricket from the 2026-27 domestic season, ending the use of the Dukes ball in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy and President’s Trophy after two seasons.
According to sources, the PCB believes the return of the Kookaburra ball will help reduce the gap between domestic first-class cricket and Test cricket. The move is also expected to create a more balanced contest between bat and ball.
The Dukes ball, known for its pronounced and durable seam, has provided fast bowlers with extended swing and seam movement over the past two domestic seasons. This has given bowlers a significant advantage in several matches.
Fast-bowling conditions in northern venues
Most first-class matches in the new season are scheduled to be played in Peshawar, Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Abbottabad. The weather and pitches at these venues are already considered favourable for fast bowling.
The PCB expects the Kookaburra ball to help establish a better balance between batting and bowling under these conditions. The change could also provide spinners with greater opportunities to influence matches.
The Kookaburra ball was last used in Pakistan’s domestic first-class cricket during the 2023-24 season. Its return will therefore mark a change in playing conditions for the country’s premier red-ball competitions.